National Day of Mourning

Here’s a simple math question… what is the answer to 144 + 144 + 31 = ? Okay, the answer is 319.

So now you might be wondering what does that number represent?

Sadly that is the total number of people who died last year due to work related circumstances in the three Western Canadian Provinces in which we work:- 144 workers died in British Columbia- 144 died in Alberta- 31 died in Saskatchewan

As we contemplate these numbers we must not overlook the tragic fact that every single fatality was someone’s brother, sister, mom, dad, husband, wife, uncle, aunt, maybe even grandpa or grandma…

In looking at these tragic numbers, the clear reality is we all still have a very long way to go when it comes to work place safety. Truly, even one work related fatality is one too many!

NATIONAL DAY OF MOURNING

In Canada, April 28th has been declared the national “Day of Mourning”, in remembrance of those men and women who died from work related injuries or illness. Let’s each take a silent moment to offer our respect and prayers for all these friends and co-workers who’ve died, not only last year but in years gone by as well.

As we reflect, let’s use this memorial as motivation to renew our own personal commitment to safety. Going forward, make a conscious effort to always make the “safe” decision in everything you do. Do proper job planning. Use appropriate PPE. Implement proper safe work practices. Avoid shortcuts. Ensure your tools and equipment is in proper working condition. Stay focused on the task at hand. Avoid rushing. If you are unsure about something, stop and talk to your supervisor.

When it comes to work place safety, Zero injuries and Zero incidents truly is the only result any of us should ever accept.

As we remember our lost friends and co-workers, in their honor let’s challenge ourselves to reach our safety goal of ZERO!